Discover Nepal + Community Development Volunteer : Voluntourism Vacation

  Nepal

• Kathmandu: 
Kathmandu
• Pokhara: 
Pokhara

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: bespoke group trips can be tailored to your requirements - many dates available - get in touch with your group request

Description: Do something different - make a difference: See the highlights of Nepal on this two week tour, and spend time helping on a range of local community projects based in the Chitwan National Park. Take in the sights of mystical Kathmandu, go jungle trekking by elephant back, see the beauty of Chitwan, and marvel at the soaring Himalayan peaks.

Kathmandu
The historic capital of Nepal, Kathmandu has long captured the imagination of travellers worldwide. It is a living museum, with a unique experience around each corner! Literally hundreds of Hindu temples sit alongside Buddhist stupas and Tibetan monasteries, with their evocative prayer flags flapping in the breeze. Enjoy a leisurely three days in the city with sightseeing options included each day.

Chitwan National Park
On day four you will enjoy a spectacular journey through the Nepalese countryside to the Royal Chitwan National Park. You will be based here for five full days, giving you the chance to participate in a range of voluntary projects in one of the park's villages, and to appreciate the amazing variety of wildlife to be seen in this protected area. In addition to the elusive Bengal Tiger, you are likely to come across rhinos, crocodiles and an abundance of birds on an early morning elephant safari, a canoe trip down the Rapti River, or a guided jungle walk, all accompanied by a top naturalist.

Pokhara
Your final destination sits on the shores of a lake, surrounded by some of the world's highest mountains. One option is to join a guided trek for a day to gain just a glimpse of the majesty and power of these mighty mountains. Alternatively you may prefer the more gentle option of a boat trip on the lake, but be sure to wake up early to witness one of the most incredible sights you will ever see the sun rising over the Fishtail Mountain with the snowy caps of the Himalaya reflecting the morning's first rays of sunlight.

For more information, send us an email.

Highlights:
* Experience the amazing sights of unforgettable Kathmandu
* Enjoy five days working on development projects in Chitwan National Park
* See the enigma which is Lake Pokhara. Enjoy a day's trekking
* Responsible volunteer travel - your holiday doesn't exploit the environment or the local people
* Carbon-neutral

The Project
The Tharu are indigenous people of the Terai Plains in southern Nepal. Several of their villages are located within the Royal Chitwan National Park and despite their proximity to the tourist enclaves, conditions are, quite frankly, basic to say the least. The Maruni Sanctuary Lodge works closely with local community leaders to establish projects upon which volunteers can help out with to improve the health, education and lifestyle in some of the villages.   Examples include teaching English, helping out at the local school, training women in basic health and hygiene procedures, assisting with the construction of community buildings, and vocational training for the youth.

For more information on our trips, projects, responsible travel and carbon-neutral policies, send us an email.

Qualifications: No requirements, specific skills, education or certifications are necessary to book - just a desire to do something different and make a difference.

Only people permitted to work with children unsupervised (and who can supply the relevant paperwork to prove this) will be permitted to work unsupervised with children on our projects - and then at the discretion of those who run the projects.

Cost in US$: from 2000

Cost Excludes:

    * Nepalese Visa (£20 for UK residents)
    * Meals not mentioned above

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Anyone can be eligible: Our holidays are for anyone who wants to use their holiday to have a great time and do something positive, altruistic and with a purpose. No requirements, specific skills, education or certifications are necessary to book - just a desire to do something different and make a difference.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Nepal Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Other

Different Travel's Mission Statement: We are a volunteer and adventure travel and tourism group specialist, set up in the wake of the Asian Tsunami on 26th December 2004, offering bespoke group challenges and volunteer opportunities to work alongside local people on international development projects abroad combined with responsible travel and great accommodation. We make sure we work to meet the needs of the communities who welcome us into their world - and at the same time offer our travellers amazing experiences which will stay with them a lifetime.

Year Founded: 2004